8 Ridiculously Inappropriate Phrases And Acts In Sherlock Holmes Stories

4. Endorsement Of Cocaine €“ Various Books

In the 19th Century Cocaine was a legal substance, and to show Holmes' mental prowess Doyle decided to show that Holmes would inject himself with cocaine in order to stimulate his brain when cases were lacking. This is bizarre by modern standards, and the demonisation of drugs means that it's impossible not to be surprised by Watson's failure to question a deadly obsession. Watson makes numerous notions towards the medical side effects of these drugs, yet he does not forcibly prevent is friend from damaging his astute mind with what we could consider a narcotic, addictive and debilitating habit. Johnny Lee Miller's portrayal of Sherlock Holmes in Elementary reflects that of a recovering drug addict, and is one of the few modern reincarnations which tackles this part of the source material; Benedict Cumberbatch's portrayal of Sherlock shows him to be someone who is struggling to quit smoking, and despite a few references to preferring something 7% stronger than tea €“ which is a reference to the 7% cocaine solution that Holmes would use €“ there are few adaptations willing to tackle this sensitive issue. Cocaine is now a Class A drug, one which we know to be extremely dangerous to you as well as possibly leaving you open to long term prison sentences. Doyle had no way of knowing that such a readily available Victorian substance was in reality an extremely harmful substance, so it's just a case of taking the rough with the smooth.